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Comparison of NACA 6-series and 4-digit airfoils for Darrieus wind turbines

Journal Article · · J. Energy; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2514/3.48083· OSTI ID:6643980
The aerodynamic efficiency of Darrieus wind turbines as effected by blade airfoil geometry was investigated. Analysis was limited to curved-bladed machines having rotor solidities of 7 to 21% and operating at a Reynolds number of 3 X 10/sup 6/, Ten different airfoils, having thickness-to-chord ratios of 12, 15, and 18%, were studied. Performance estimates were made using a blade element/momentum theory approach. Results indicated that NACA 6-series airfoils yeild peak power coefficients as great as NACA 4-digit airfoils and have broader and flatter power coefficient-tip speed ratio curves. Sample calculations for an NACA 63/sub 2/-015 airfoil showed an annual energy output increase of 17-27%, depending on rotor solidity, compared to an NACA 0015 airfoil.
Research Organization:
Univ. of California, Davis, Davis, CA
OSTI ID:
6643980
Journal Information:
J. Energy; (United States), Journal Name: J. Energy; (United States) Vol. 7:4; ISSN JENED
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English